I haven't done a recent favorites post in a while. I finally accumulated some new favorites so figured it was about time I shared them! This week includes a lot of different eyeshadow products, obviously some lip products and a few randoms.

Thursday, June 11, 2015

Giorgio Armani foundation -- I know it's pricey, but it's truly amazing. It really makes your skin glow and has a really nice finish. It's medium coverage but seems pretty build able, so if you are going to a special event like a wedding, put a little bit more on. Before you buy though, go to the makeup counter to get color matched because I think the color numbers are a bit tricky.

Nars liquid eyeliner -- Any brand of liquid eyeliner will work but it will really make your eyes stand out and won't bleed or smear.

YSL glossy stain -- Another pricey one, but this one is worth it as well in my opinion. The color does stay for a solid few hours and you don't have to touch up which is nice if you are at an event like a wedding.

Smashbox Photo Finish primer -- If you have it, use a primer that's meant for photos and videos. I'm not sure it makes a huge difference, but it's worth doing just in case.

Bobbi Brown blush -- A classic blush to warm up your cheeks is all you need if you're wearing a high definition foundation. This is one of my faves.

Too Faced Natural Eyes palette -- I don't actually own this palette but have been wanting it for a while. I definitely recommend leaning towards a neutral eye for events where you'll be in photos or videos. Any palette will do, but steer away from bold colors or crazy combinations.

Monday, June 8, 2015

This past weekend was my best friend's wedding in upstate NY. It was a beautiful weekend and I couldn't be happier for her and her new hubby! I've been posting over the last few months about outfits to wear to wedding showers, rehearsal dinners and hairstyles and makeup to wear for the big day. After lots of searching on Pinterest and many shopping trips, here's how everything turned out!

Scott and I at the reception:

Here's a close-up of my hair do:

I also decided to do my own makeup for the wedding and I'll put up a post this week about the new products I bought:

Wednesday, June 3, 2015

My boyfriend and I signed up for Blue Apron recently and I'll admit that I was a bit reluctant to try it. I thought it could be overpriced and unnecessary but it has proven to be so helpful, easy and delicious. We usually order twice a month and it's $60 per week for 3 meals for 2 people. Between the miscellaneous groceries, take out and dinners out, it ends up being a perfect amount for us to order. The recipes are super easy to cook, really healthy and definitely different than what I would've tried to cook on my own.

Before this I hardly ever cooked, mostly because I didn't have the patience and had some bad experiences...but the recipe cards are easy to follow and it's basically idiot proof. Here are some of the meals I've cooked:

Tuesday, June 2, 2015

This weekend I'm serving as a bridesmaid in my very first wedding. Even though this is my first time being in a wedding, I already have accumulated a few tips that I would recommend to anyone as they prepare for their friend's big day. A few are things I wish I'd done better and a few are just general tips and tricks so you'll feel a bit more prepared leading up to it. Feel free to add additional tips in the comments below!

1. Book your own appointments in advance: I definitely waited too long to book my hair and nail appointments. I get my hair highlighted but I would recommend this if you need it cut as well. Most weddings are in the spring and summer and there will be competition for appointments at most salons because it will be graduation, wedding and prom season all at once. When at the appointment, ask for advice on your hair-do for the big day from the stylist. Come in with a few ideas then just pick their brain to see what they recommend. (See #2) (Unless your bride has chosen for you already or if you are getting your nails done as a bridal party.) As far as nails go, pick neutrals or match your nail polish to your dress. Get a gel manicure if you can and get a fresh pedicure.

2. Think of possible hair styles: There are tons and tons of ideas for hair styles online. I recommend checking out Pinterest and making a board of your favorites. Also, search with a hashtag on Twitter and Instagram to see what girls with similar dresses have done with their hair.3. Make a packing list: There's so much to remember to pack for a wedding, especially when you are traveling there from a decent distance. Make a list of each outfit you'll need for each wedding event, i.e., the outfit you'll wear to get ready before the ceremony, the rehearsal dinner outfit, etc. Also, think about miscellaneous items like a mini hair spray, lipstick/lipgloss, flip flops, a tote bag to carry all your stuff, etc.4. Get a makeup tutorial at the mall: You may or may not be paying to have your hair and makeup done at the wedding but sometimes it's just too expensive or not necessary if you know how to do your own makeup well. I'm doing my own makeup for this wedding but need some tips on what color eyeshadow and lipstick to wear. If you go to any makeup counter or store like Sephora, they will give you a tutorial for free (you may have to buy a product though). This will help you feel confident in your look before the wedding and will give you a chance to make sure that you have the right products, especially for taking pictures.5. Ask the bride for an itinerary: Most brides probably already do this but definitely ask for a schedule of events and information on what you need to do/wear for each event. Print out a copy and make sure you've done everything the week before. This will prove to be incredibly helpful for not only you but for the bridal party and the bride too.